DPS: Carry on the Proud Tradition of Protecting, Serving Texas

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is encouraging the public to consider a career in law enforcement, and to proudly serve and protect Texas by becoming a Texas State Trooper. DPS is accepting applications for trooper recruit classes scheduled for 2016. The next application deadline is Jan. 27 for the class beginning July 10, 2016.

“The men and women who graduate from the DPS Training Academy will join an elite and reputable crime-fighting force that has answered the call to serve and protect the great state of Texas for nearly 200 years,” said DPS Director Steven McCraw. “DPS carries the enormous responsibility of protecting Texas from a wide range of public safety threats, and we are seeking a diverse group of first-rate recruit candidates who want to join one of the premier law enforcement agencies in the country.”

In 2015, the Texas Legislature and Texas Leadership authorized 250 additional trooper positions to be permanently stationed in the border area by August 2017, along with additional DPS recruit schools to help fill that need. Four trooper trainee recruit classes are planned for 2016.

After gaining experience on the job, Texas Highway Patrol (THP) Troopers have the opportunity to promote within THP or to other divisions or specialized units within the agency, such as the Texas Rangers, Criminal Investigations, SWAT, Tactical Marine Unit or Aircraft Operations. The department’s 13 divisions and highly-trained personnel are steadfast in their commitment to serving and protecting the state, many of whom use cutting-edge technology and equipment to identify, disrupt and deter crime as well as dismantle dangerous organizations such as Mexican cartels, their gang counterparts and other criminal threats.

DPS is an equal opportunity employer, and the starting pay for accepted trainees is $4,623.44 monthly or $55,481 yearly, based on the current 10-hour workday (50-hour workweek). Basic requirements for acceptance into a DPS recruit class include the following:

20 years of age at the time of application and 21 years of age upon graduation

60 college-earned hours from a regional accredited college/university; or 24 months active duty military or full-time peace officer experience; or six years of service in the military reserves or National Guard

Pass a physical fitness test, written assessment, criminal history check and polygraph exam

“DPS employees are second to none, as the choice to join our department and fulfill our mission to protect and serve Texas demonstrates a selfless commitment to the people of our state,” said Director McCraw. “DPS has a proud history of keeping Texas safe, and we are eager to meet the brave men and women who will carry on that tradition as the next Texas State Troopers.”

For more information about the upcoming recruit class dates and deadlines, minimum requirements or to apply, visit www.JoinDPS.com. Individuals can also contact a regional DPS recruiter by calling 1-866-898-7667. After submitting an online application, applicants will be notified by email if they are selected to continue to the testing phase.

The current recruit class graduates on Dec. 18, 2015, and the next school begins Jan. 10, 2016.